Rechelkopf

The Rechelkopf is a 1,330-metre mountain in the foothills of the Alps, north of the main Alpine chain. It stands near Gaißach in the Isar valley, forming a two-kilometre ridge with the Sulzkopf and Mitterberg. Geologists place it in the Flysch zone where the Alps meet the foothills, so it is not counted as part of the high Alps. The German Alpine Club’s Waakirchen section owns the Sigriz-Alm hut on its northern slope. Every February, when snow is good, the West Hang hosts the Schnablerrennen, a popular downhill race. The mountain is reached from Gaißach by the Sonntratensteig path, which climbs 650 metres through woodland to the summit. The route passes the Sonntraten ridge at 1,096 metres, where a small private hut offers a pause. At about 1,123 metres the Schwaigeralm appears, with its little chapel, another spot to rest. The track is wide enough for mountain bikes as far as the alm. An alternative starts from Marienstein village and uses forest roads to the Sigrizalm. Visitors find quiet, varied woodland walks with wide views over the Isar valley. From the Sonntraten ridge the Benediktenwand and the protected Traten heathland can be seen. The summit itself is open and gives a clear outlook. The route is gentle enough for families and is popular in early spring and late autumn when higher peaks still hold snow.